B68/100
High Point Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 118,399 residents · North Carolina
What's In High Point's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.011 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOA | 0.004 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Failed treatment technique requirements
When: January 1, 2025 – January 31, 2025Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: April 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: April 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
Understanding violation severity
Tier 1Urgent health risk. Utility must notify all customers within 24 hours.Tier 2Important health or treatment issue. Customers notified within 30 days.Tier 3Administrative or monitoring issue. Reported in the annual water quality report.
Source: EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS) · Updated quarterly
Water Utility Details
HIGH POINT, CITY OF
Population Served
118,399
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NC0241020
Frequently Asked Questions About High Point Water
Is High Point tap water safe to drink?
High Point, North Carolina tap water receives a grade of B (68/100), which is considered good. Out of 69 contaminants tested, 2 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 2 exceed health guidelines (MCLGs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in High Point's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in High Point's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, PFOA. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does High Point have any water quality violations?
Yes, High Point has 8 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include TT, MR, Other. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in High Point?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in High Point is recommended. 2 contaminant(s) exceed legal limits. An NSF-certified filter — such as a reverse osmosis or activated carbon system — can effectively reduce many common contaminants. Choose a filter certified to remove the specific contaminants found in your area.
Where does High Point's tap water come from?
High Point's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by HIGH POINT, CITY OF. The system serves approximately 118,399 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is High Point's water tested?
Under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), water utilities are required to regularly test for over 90 contaminants. Testing frequency varies by contaminant — some are tested monthly, others quarterly or annually. High Point's water systems must report results to the EPA and publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). The data on this page reflects the latest available EPA testing data.
How does High Point's water compare to other cities in North Carolina?
High Point's water quality score of 68/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our North Carolina state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about High Point's water quality?
If you have concerns about High Point's tap water, consider these steps: (1) Request your utility's annual Consumer Confidence Report for detailed local data. (2) Get your water independently tested through a state-certified laboratory. (3) Consider an NSF-certified water filter rated for the contaminants found in your area. (4) Contact your water utility (HIGH POINT, CITY OF) with specific questions. (5) Report water quality issues to your state drinking water program or the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.